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To Fancy vs Fancying Infinitives & Gerunds

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Infinitives: An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by the word "to" (e.g., to swim, to eat, to learn). It can function as a noun, adjective, or adverb in a sentence. Infinitives are often used to express intentions, purposes, desires, or potential actions. Gerunds: A gerund is the -ing form of a verb (e.g., swimming, eating, learning). It’s different from a “present participle” which functions as a verb tense. A gerund can be the subject, object, or complement of a sentence.

When and How to Use Each Expression?

Get a sense of when and how each expression can be used through the following examples!

To fancy (Infinitive)

Purpose or Intention: Use the infinitive "to fancy" when you want to express a purpose, intention, desire, or potential action

Example

I want to fancy a new hairstyle.

Fancying (Gerund)

Activity or Experience: Use the gerund "fancying" when you want to refer to the activity itself or the experience as a noun.

Example

Fancying unique experiences is her passion.

Where can infinitives/gerunds be placed in a sentence?

To fancy (Infinitive)

  • 1Subject

    To fancy is a common way to express a preference.

    To fancy is a common way to express a preference.

    • "*To fancy*" serves as the subject of the sentence.
    • Infinitive phrase (subject) + verb (is) + noun phrase (a common way to express a preference).
  • 2Object

    She wants me to fancy her new outfit.

    She wants me to fancy her new outfit.

    • "Me *to fancy* her new outfit" is the object of the verb "wants."
    • Noun (She) + verb (wants) + noun phrase (me *to fancy* her new outfit).
  • 3Adjective Modifier

    I need a mirror to fancy myself.

    I need a mirror to fancy myself.

    • "*To fancy* myself" modifies the noun "mirror."
    • Noun (I) + verb (need) + noun phrase (a mirror *to fancy* myself).

Fancying (Gerund)

  • 1Subject

    Fancying luxurious items can be a sign of wealth.

    Fancying luxurious items can be a sign of wealth.

    • "*Fancying* luxurious items" is the subject of the sentence.
    • Gerund (subject) + verb (can be) + noun phrase (a sign of wealth).
  • 2Object

    I enjoy fancying extravagant vacations.

    I enjoy fancying extravagant vacations.

    • "*Fancying* extravagant vacations" is the object of the verb "enjoy."
    • Noun (I) + verb (enjoy) + gerund (*fancying* extravagant vacations).
  • 3Object of Preposition

    She has a talent for fancying unique artwork.

    She has a talent for fancying unique artwork.

    • "For *fancying* unique artwork" is the object of the preposition "for."
    • Noun phrase (She) + verb (has) + noun phrase (a talent for *fancying* unique artwork).

Verbs Taking Infinitives/Gerunds as Objects

The following are verbs that can take only the base form of the verb (infinitive), only the -ing form (gerund), or both.

Verbs Taking Infinitives as Objects

Example

She plans to fancy a vacation to Hawaii.

They hope to fancy a romantic dinner on their anniversary.

He wants to fancy a new car.

We decided to fancy a night out on the town.

They agreed to fancy a weekend getaway together.

Verbs Taking Gerunds as Objects

Example

She enjoys fancying gourmet cuisine.

They recommend fancying a cup of tea for relaxation.

I dislike the idea of fancying expensive clothes.

He avoids fancying unnecessary expenses.

Can you imagine yourself fancying a luxury vacation?

Verbs Taking Both Infinitives and Gerunds as Objects

Example

She likes to fancy herself as a fashionista. She likes fancying unique fashion trends.

We started to fancy trying out new hobbies. We started fancying outdoor activities.

He began to fancy a career in acting. He began fancying himself as a performer.

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